Kenya has launched two landmark policy frameworks, the Kenya Climate Change and Health Strategy (2024–2029) and the Kenya Household Air Pollution Prevention Strategy (2024–2029), aimed at strengthening climate-resilient health systems and safeguarding vulnerable communities.
The announcement was made during the Pan-African Conference on Environment, Climate Change and Health, held in Nairobi under the theme “Harnessing Science, Policy and Partnerships for Environmental Sustainability and Climate Health Resilience.”
Unveiling the two frameworks, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the strategies mark a major step in integrating climate action into Kenya’s health and development agenda, in line with President William Ruto’s vision of a green, inclusive, and climate-resilient economy.
“The two strategies will advance primary prevention, health preparedness, and policy readiness, while reducing emissions and strengthening communities’ ability to adapt to the impacts of climate change, "he said.
He emphasized that climate change remains one of the greatest threats to health and a key barrier to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), calling on African nations to adopt integrated approaches that link environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and public health.
“The health impacts of climate change are being felt across the continent. We must break silos and forge partnerships that ensure our health systems are prepared, responsive, and resilient,” he added.
The four-day conference brought together policymakers, scientists, and development partners from across Africa to discuss collaborative approaches to climate–health challenges.
It concluded with the adoption of the Nairobi Living Declaration and the handover of a ceremonial baton of stewardship to Kenya, symbolizing Africa’s shared commitment to advancing the climate–health agenda.
The declaration unites African nations under a common framework for global climate negotiations, outlining priorities for a healthier and more resilient future.
The conference also called for fair financing, equitable technology transfer, and stronger local research capacity to ensure that Africa’s voice is both heard and acted upon in global dialogues.
